Symptoms You Should Never Ignore if You’ve Had Exposure to Asbestos

Asbestos was a widely used material, especially in construction and building materials from the 1950’s to 1990’s.Unfortunately, many commercial workers and homeowners have been exposed to this dangerous material, often unknowingly. However, if you are aware that you have been exposed to asbestos, even if it was a decade ago, it is important that you know there could be risks to your health, such as developing mesothelioma.

To get a more in-depth look at mesothelioma symptoms you should consult mesotheliomahelp.org/mesothelioma/symptoms to get educated on the different forms of mesothelioma and how they effect your body.Since early detection is important with any form of cancer, you should follow up as soon as possible with your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms.

Shortness of Breath

While shortness of breath shouldn’t usually be ignored by anyone, this is especially important if you know you have had some type of exposure to asbestos. It may start off as a little shortness while climbing stairs or carrying heavy groceries but then proceed to everyday shortness of breath, where there seems to be no reason for you to be struggling. Since mesothelioma can occur in the lining of the lungs, it is important to have this shortness of breath investigated.

2. Stomach Pain

Another common area that is affected by mesothelioma is the stomach lining. If you notice your stomach seems swollen and is painful, this is a symptom you don’t want to leave alone. It is important to follow up with your doctor to ensure the lining of your stomach is not infected. This pain and swelling may also be accompanied by an unexplained loss of appetite and loss of weight, yet a feeling of fullness.

3. Constant Nagging Dry Cough

You may not notice the cough, but others around you may comment, asking why you are constantly coughing. It may or may not be accompanied by other symptoms similar to a cold like fever, shortness of breath or night sweats. Since there are several other conditions which these symptoms are related to, you should follow up with your doctor. A constant cough, no matter how big or small, is something worth investigating further.

4. Chest Pain

It goes without saying that most people recognize chest pain as an important reason to seek medical help. However, there are varying degrees of chest pain. If the chest pain is dull and seems insignificant, it may be overlooked. If you are experiencing any kind of lasting chest pain, whether dull or sharp, you need to speak with your doctor. It’s ok if you are wrong and the chest pain you feel is a muscle pull or strain–it’s better to be safe than sorry.

5. Coughing Up Blood

Even if you have no other symptoms, this one is not one to ignore. The blood has to be coming from somewhere and it is important to investigate where. This may be frightening and overwhelming for you, understandably, but never, ever overlook coughing up blood. This symptom is more common in later stages of mesothelioma.

Early detection is key to a better chance of survival. That is why is it’s important to never ignore any of these symptoms. You may not know if you have been exposed to asbestos or not, so it is best to ask you doctor to check into these symptoms you are experiencing to be sure.